?Chapter 265:


    Witnessing Ethan’s joy, Maia felt a deep, warm sensation swell within her. She stood quietly behind him, her voice gentle as she said, “Ethan, this is your study now.”


    Ethan whirled around, locking eyes with Maia. He had beenughing just a moment ago, yet now tears began to form in his eyes. Ethan struggled to speak, his throat tightening, his voiceing out hoarse. “Maia, you…”


    Maia had shown him such incredible kindness, more than he knew how to thank her for.


    Silently, Maia extended her hand and gently tousled Ethan’s hair, her touchforting. Her eyes were filled with gentleness.


    “Ethan, you need to work hard. Someday, you’re going to surpass even me!”


    Off to one side, Kathie felt a mix of emotions stir within her. As she aged, her constant worry had been her ability to support Ethan. Now, seeing Maia by Ethan’s side, Kathie found that her worries began to fade.


    Taking in her surroundings, Kathie felt the reality of their situation settle in. Her vision blurred slightly with emotion.


    “Maia…”


    As Maia turned, she immediately saw the tears in Kathie’s eyes. Kathie quickly dabbed at her cheeks and managed a tearful smile. “I’m just overwhelmed with joy. It’s hard to put into words. It feels like things are finally getting better.”


    Ethan suddenly said, “You’re crying because you’re happy!”


    Laughter filled the room as the three of them shared the moment.


    Maia then guided Kathie to the dining room, where a carefully prepared spread of nourishing meals awaited them.


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    “Kathie, these meals are important for your recovery, but you won’t have to eat them every day. I’ll drop by and cook for you whenever possible.”


    “Okay, okay!” Kathie replied, holding Maia’s hand firmly, her eyes roving appreciatively over their new, inviting home.


    This felt exactly like what a home should be. She hadn’t experienced such peace andfort in years. Kathie thought that staying together like this would be ideal. She imagined watching Maia and Ethan mature, perhaps starting families of their own someday. Kathie hoped her health would permit her to help with their future children.


    However, her attention was suddenly drawn to something concerning.


    There appeared to be no bedroom designated for Maia. Instead, one room had been transformed into a study.


    This led Kathie to wonder if Maia intended to reside elsewhere. A question formed in Kathie’s mind, prompting her to ask, “Maia, are you… seeing someone?”


    Maia paused for a second, and for no clear reason, Chris’ face appeared in her thoughts.


    She wasn’t seeing anyone, but she was already listed as married.


    Maia bit her lip, unsure how to respond.


    Ethan quickly spoke up. “There’s no way Maia has a boyfriend! What kind of guy could possibly be good enough for her? My future brother-inw has to be the best guy out there!”


    Maia couldn’t hold back augh. “You’re setting the bar pretty high.”


    Ethan replied with all seriousness, “Well, naturally! You’re amazing, Maia. Any guy who wants to marry you has to be perfect. Even I’d have to give my stamp of approval!”


    Maia smiled but stayed quiet.


    She looked around the home she had created for them, her eyes firm and unwavering.


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